This week I joined millions of Canadians who have (won) Cash-for-Life. Did I win a lottery? You might say that but not in the usual sense. I was, however, lucky enough to make it to my 65th birthday. This means my first Old Age Pension check is “in the mail”.
Sharing
I had no idea where we’d be when my birthday hit but I knew that wherever I was, I wanted to follow Randy’s example (he turned 65 last year) and share that first windfall with whoever I happened to be with. On this trip, it might have meant inviting a stranger (a neighboring camper) to join us for dinner. As it turned out, we landed on the doorstep of friends, Bruce and Sheila in Bullhead City, the evening before my birthday.
We asked them about their favorite restaurant. Then spent a bit of my first cash-for-life check at D’Anglelo’s (a mom and pop diner with excellent Italian food)
A Favorite Beach and a Bottle of Wine
By afternoon we said our goodbyes; One of our favorite beach boondocking spots was within easy reach. We promised the person who told us about this spot that we’d keep it secret. Even though this birthday is for sharing, I must remain true to that promise. If you recognize this location, please don’t spill the beans (at least not here, in the comments).
The Desert in Bloom
The week leading up to my birthday saw us spending a few days around Tucson where we visited, friends, took care of a few errands and hiked in Saguaro National Park.
Another Boondockers Welcome Stop
We also spent one night as guests of a special Boondockers Welcome host. This couple have been founding members and some of our most engaged, welcoming hosts. We simply had to meet them in person since we were in their area; we’re so glad we did. They’re such genuine, kind, and amazing people. With each stop we learn more about the reasons our host members love to provide an overnight stop for visitors. Our hostess told us, “We were full-time RVers ourselves for many years, so they are our community . When we heard about Boondockers Welcome, it just felt like a good fit for us. It feels right to be able to share what we have with fellow members of our community.”
Their property is as beautiful as they are with gorgeous views and trails through the desert that they invited us to wander at our leisure. Their dog, Sam, was our guide, stopping each time we did to admire the whimsical art displays at intervals along the route.
When we arrived, we were greeted by a familiar face: MaryG. We recognized her from Escapade last week, where she had just signed up as a member. This was her first Boondockers Welcome stop and she sure picked a good one!
The Sunset of our Lives?
We’re not ready to call it that just yet.
But we are counting our blessings and good fortune. The fact that now both Randy and I are on Cash-for-life is just a bonus. Although our income has increased, we’re not likely to start throwing any of that “extra” money towards campgrounds. We love boondocking for so many other reasons aside from the savings.
Days on the road at time of writing: 21
Camping costs to date: $18.00
Thank you marianne
r